We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Sustainable Bio-based Polyurethane Adhesives Utilizing PPG2000 and Renewable Polyols: Synthesis, Characterization, and Mechanical Properties
Summary
Researchers developed a novel bio-based polyurethane adhesive system using polypropylene glycol (PPG2000), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and renewable polyols including isosorbide for automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications. The study characterized the synthesis, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of these bio-based PU adhesives as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based counterparts.
Abstract Developing high-performance, sustainable adhesives for automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications remains a major challenge due to the inherent trade-off between mechanical strength and thermal stability in bio-based materials. While previous studies have explored bio-based polyurethane (PU) adhesives, achieving superior adhesion and durability remains challenging when compared to petroleum-based counterparts. This study presents a novel bio-based polyurethane adhesive system utilizing polypropylene glycol (PPG2000), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and renewable polyols (isosorbide-derived polyols, diglycerol, and glycerol). The adhesives were synthesized via a controlled one-shot polymerization process with 4-tert-butylphenol as an end-capping agent, enabling precise modulation of crosslink density and molecular architecture. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy confirmed complete urethane bond formation, and isocyanate group (NCO%) titration validated stoichiometric conversion. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) revealed distinct molecular weight distributions, which influence adhesive performance by affecting crosslink density, elasticity, and mechanical strength depending on polyol structure. Thermal analysis showed that isosorbide-derived polyol formulations exhibited up to a 25°C higher degradation onset temperature and a 10°C increase in glass transition temperature (Tg) compared to petroleum-based adhesives. Meanwhile, formulations containing diglycerol and glycerol demonstrated up to 39% higher shear strength (32.5 MPa) and 77% improved impact resistance (36.8 MPa) relative to the reference system, attributed to optimized segmental mobility and crosslinking effects. This work establishes a strategic framework for designing bio-based polyurethane adhesives, while acknowledging limitations such as potential variability in raw material sources and suggesting future research into long-term environmental performance, that not only surpasses conventional petroleum-based systems in thermal and mechanical performance but also aligns with the principles of green chemistry and sustainable material innovation. These findings offer a pathway for next-generation structural adhesives in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Engineered polysaccharide alpha‐1,3‐glucan in highly filled thermoplastic polyurethane systems
Researchers incorporated a plant-derived polysaccharide into thermoplastic polyurethane composites at very high loading levels, demonstrating a bio-based approach to reducing petroleum content in plastic products. This work explores more sustainable alternatives to fully synthetic plastic formulations.
Sustainable cycloaliphatic polyurethanes: from synthesis to applications
This review examines sustainable cycloaliphatic polyurethanes derived from bio-based and recycled feedstocks, covering synthesis routes, properties, and applications as alternatives to conventional fossil-based polyurethanes to reduce environmental impact.
High-Performance Castor Oil-Based Polyurethane Composites Reinforced by Birch Wood Fibers
Not relevant to microplastics — this paper reports the development of bio-based polyurethane coatings reinforced with birch wood fibers, a materials science study focused on sustainable construction coatings.
Thermoset polyurethanes from biobased and recycled components
Researchers synthesized thermoset polyurethanes using a recycled PET-derived monomer (BHET) combined with a biobased castor oil polyol, demonstrating a pathway to produce sustainable polymer materials from marine plastic litter and biobased feedstocks.
Toughening Enhancement Mechanism and Performance Optimization of Castor-Oil-Based Polyurethane Cross-Linked Modified Polybutylene Adipate/Terephthalate Composites
This materials science study improved the mechanical properties of the biodegradable plastic PBAT by cross-linking it with castor oil-based polyurethane. The best formulation increased tensile strength by 86% and elongation at break by 70% compared to pure PBAT, enhancing its potential as a biodegradable alternative to conventional plastic films.